Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our pest control services
How quickly can you respond to a pest problem?
We connect you with pest control providers who offer same-day service for urgent issues and schedule regular appointments within 24-48 hours.
Are your pest control methods safe for children and pets?
Yes, our providers use child and pet-safe pest control methods. They will provide specific safety instructions based on the treatment used.
How much does pest control cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of pest, severity of infestation, and property size. Cockroach treatment typically costs $150-400, ant control $120-300, and comprehensive treatments $200-600. Get a free quote for accurate pricing.
Do you provide commercial pest control services?
Yes, we connect businesses with professional pest control providers who specialize in commercial properties, including restaurants, offices, and warehouses.
How long does pest treatment take?
Treatment time varies by pest type and infestation severity. Most residential treatments take 1-3 hours, while commercial properties may require longer.
Do you offer emergency pest control?
Yes, we work with providers who offer 24/7 emergency pest control services for urgent situations.
What areas do you service?
We provide pest control services across New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga, and Dunedin.
Are your pest control providers licensed and insured?
Yes, all pest control providers in our network are fully licensed, insured, and comply with local regulations.
Do you offer ongoing pest prevention services?
Yes, our providers offer regular maintenance programs to prevent future pest problems and protect your property year-round.
What guarantees do you offer?
Our providers offer service guarantees. Specific terms vary by provider and service type. Ask about guarantees when getting your quote.
What attracts cockroaches to homes?
Cockroaches are attracted to food scraps, water sources, warmth, and dark hiding places. They commonly enter homes through cracks, drains, and gaps around pipes. Maintaining cleanliness and sealing entry points helps prevent infestations.
How long does cockroach treatment last?
Professional cockroach treatments typically provide 3-6 months of protection. Bait treatments may take 1-2 weeks to eliminate colonies, while sprays offer immediate results with residual protection lasting 6-12 weeks.
Are pest treatments safe for pets?
Modern pest control treatments are designed to be pet-safe when applied correctly. Professionals use targeted applications and will advise you on any temporary precautions needed, such as keeping pets away from treated areas until dry.
What should I do to prepare for pest control treatment?
Clear areas around baseboards, move furniture away from walls, cover food and utensils, and remove pet food and water bowls. Your pest control provider will give specific preparation instructions based on your treatment type.
How do I know if I have a cockroach infestation?
Signs include seeing live cockroaches (especially at night), finding droppings that look like coffee grounds, musty odors, egg casings, and grease marks along walls. If you see one cockroach, there are likely many more hidden nearby.
Can I treat pest problems myself?
While DIY products are available, professional treatment is more effective for serious infestations. Professionals have access to stronger products, proper application techniques, and can identify the root cause of infestations.
How often should I schedule pest control treatments?
For prevention, quarterly treatments (every 3 months) are recommended. Properties with ongoing issues may need monthly treatments initially. Your pest control provider will recommend a schedule based on your specific situation.
What pests are most common in New Zealand homes?
Common New Zealand household pests include German cockroaches, Argentine ants, white-tailed spiders, cluster flies, wasps, and rodents. Seasonal pests like wasps are more problematic in summer months.
Do you treat outdoor pest problems?
Yes, our providers handle both indoor and outdoor pest issues including ant nests, wasp nests, garden pests, and perimeter treatments to prevent pests from entering your home.
How do I prevent ants from entering my home?
Seal cracks and entry points, keep surfaces clean, store food in sealed containers, fix moisture problems, and trim vegetation away from your home. Professional barrier treatments provide additional protection.
What is the difference between pest control and pest management?
Pest control focuses on eliminating existing infestations, while pest management is an ongoing approach that combines treatment, prevention, monitoring, and education to keep pest problems from recurring.
Are there eco-friendly pest control options?
Yes, many providers offer environmentally conscious treatments using botanical products, targeted baits, and integrated pest management approaches that minimize chemical use while maintaining effectiveness.
How long should I wait before allowing children in treated areas?
This depends on the treatment type. Spray treatments typically require 2-4 hours for surfaces to dry completely. Bait treatments in stations are immediately safe. Your provider will give specific timing guidance.
What should I do if I see pests after treatment?
Some pest activity is normal for 7-14 days after treatment as insects come into contact with treated areas. If problems persist beyond this period, contact your provider as most offer follow-up services.
Can weather affect pest control treatments?
Yes, rain can wash away some outdoor treatments, extreme heat can affect product performance, and cold weather slows pest metabolism. Professional providers time treatments appropriately and may reschedule for optimal conditions.
Do I need to be home during pest control treatment?
Someone should be present to provide access and discuss the treatment plan. However, you may leave during application if preferred. Your provider will explain timing and any post-treatment requirements.
How much does pest control cost in New Zealand?
Pest control costs in New Zealand typically range from $150-$400 for residential treatments. Ant control costs $120-$300, cockroach treatment $150-$400, and comprehensive pest management $200-$600. Commercial properties and severe infestations may cost more.
Is pest control safe for pets and children?
Yes, modern pest control treatments are designed to be safe for pets and children when applied by licensed professionals. Technicians use targeted applications and provide specific safety instructions, typically requiring 2-4 hours before areas are safe for re-entry.
How long does ant treatment take?
Initial ant treatment typically takes 1-2 hours for application. Complete colony elimination usually takes 1-2 weeks with gel baits, as worker ants carry the treatment back to the colony. Follow-up visits may be scheduled to ensure effectiveness.
What is the best pest control method?
The best method depends on the pest type and situation. For ants, gel baits target entire colonies. For cockroaches, combination treatments using sprays and baits work best. Professional assessment determines the most effective approach for your specific pest problem.
How do I choose a good pest control company?
Look for licensed and insured providers with positive reviews, clear pricing, written guarantees, and experience with your specific pest problem. Ask about their treatment methods, safety protocols, and follow-up policies before making a decision.
Can pest control get rid of cockroaches permanently?
Professional pest control can eliminate cockroach infestations and provide long-term protection. Success depends on thorough treatment, sealing entry points, addressing moisture issues, and ongoing prevention measures. Most providers offer guarantees with follow-up treatments.
How often should I spray for pests?
For prevention, quarterly treatments (every 3 months) are typically recommended. Properties with active infestations may need monthly treatments initially. Your pest control provider will recommend an appropriate schedule based on your situation and pest pressure.
What kills ants instantly?
Contact sprays kill ants instantly but don't eliminate colonies. Professional gel baits are more effective for complete control, taking 1-2 weeks to eliminate entire colonies. For immediate results with long-term effectiveness, professionals use combination treatments.
When should I call pest control?
Call pest control when you see pests during daylight hours, find droppings or damage, notice musty odors, or when DIY treatments haven't worked. Early intervention prevents small problems from becoming major infestations requiring more extensive treatment.
Does pest control work in winter?
Yes, pest control works year-round. Winter treatments are often more effective as pests move indoors seeking warmth and food. Indoor treatments aren't affected by weather, and winter is an ideal time for prevention before spring pest activity increases.
How long does cockroach spray last?
Professional cockroach sprays typically provide residual protection for 6-12 weeks indoors. Outdoor treatments may last 4-8 weeks depending on weather conditions. Gel baits can remain effective for 2-3 months when properly applied in protected areas.
What attracts pests to my home?
Pests are attracted to food sources (crumbs, pet food), water (leaks, moisture), shelter (cracks, clutter), and warmth. Poor sanitation, standing water, unsealed food, and entry points like gaps under doors increase pest attraction to properties.
Can I spray for pests myself?
While DIY sprays are available, professional treatment is more effective for serious infestations. Professionals have access to stronger products, proper application techniques, safety training, and can identify root causes that DIY methods often miss.
How much does termite treatment cost?
Termite treatment costs typically range from $1,500-$4,000 depending on property size, treatment method, and infestation severity. Barrier treatments cost $2,000-$3,500, while baiting systems range from $1,800-$3,000. Annual inspections cost $200-$400.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us for answers to any other questions about our pest control services.